Connecting With Others

I have two major things to share . . .

Organizing . . . My Computer!

I decided to start off my 2013-2014 school year by organizing my thumb drive! To anyone who knows me, this should not come as a surprise. Except, I quickly figured out I was not made for computer work!

Last year, in my attempt to make it through my first year as a counselor, I was not overly conscious of how I was organizing all of my counseling documents, lessons, activities, forms, data, accommodations,etc . . . BUT, especially my lessons!

So this year, I decided to go back through my thumb drive and start organizing all of my lessons, activities, etc.

One Year Down . . .

Well, I made it through my first year of being a school counselor. 7 years in education total, wow!

It wasn’t easy in the least bit. Not my best year, and definitely not my worst. I think sometimes at the end of the year after all the stressors, everyone’s opinions about my effectiveness, and my uncertainty about whether or not I made a difference, all I can do is focus on the negative aspects of my year. I felt unappreciated, I felt the teachers didn’t understand the base I was giving the children to become effective in later years, I wanted to see results, and I had to constantly remember that in counseling you give the tools and may never see the “fruit” of your work. A frustrating year, yes! A year to learn from, YES!

The Courage to Be Imperfect

When attending the TCA conference back in October, I bet you can guess the #1 session that caught my attention?

Moving From Bullies to Buddies

Do you recall when, ages ago, I attended the TCA conference? I still have 5 sessions that I REALLY wanted to share. I decided I’d share one of my favorites with you today. In fact, now that I’m thinking about it, I’ll probably start using this lesson with my 3rd graders starting next week. And on another fact, I am presenting about this session at my Catholic Counselor’s Meeting Feb. 15th. Writing this post is probably going to help me get my thoughts for that presentation organized (or just emphasize how much more planning I need to do).

Metaphors and Guided Visualizations that Accelerate the Change Process

The first session I attended while at the TCA Conference was focused on guided visualizations to help a client during their change process. The session emphasized the use of guided visuals to explore the client’s subconscious mind. The idea is based on mental storytelling to learn concepts such as, choice, responsibility, self-control, and letting go.

Getting My Learn on and Making Meat Loaf

I just got back from the Texas Counselors Association Conference in Galveston! It was two days filled with everything from new techniques to networking, presenting new research to being updated on old. It was so motivating to see all different types of counselors share their experiences. It revived my motivation to get my LPC and lit a fire of love in me for my new profession. And yes I said lit a fire of love because I left that conference feeling rejuvenated and ready to take on any client/student that walked into my room. That’s the power of professional development ladies and gentlemen.

The Art of the Relationship

I would like everyone to meet my new friend . . .